Monday, January 14, 2019
A mournful Grandson from afar yearns to be with his family in this time of great loss. Though he unable to make this journey in body, his spirit has already arrived. I am grateful that my dear Meme was surrounded by her loving children, so that she may have felt my presence through them. For this past year, in my absence, my Meme has asked for me time and again. It warms my heart to know that she thought of me so often, despite my inability to make regular visits. A year ago in December is when I last saw her, and as I walked out of her apartment I began to cry, fearing that had been the last time I would see her. I have mourned her ever since that day, for I knew she was not long for this world, and I would not be afforded the privilege of being by her side during her last days. To feel her joyful and loving presence, to enjoy the pleasure of her company, to hear her talk to Nina, my wonderful fiance, about cooking and knitting, to see her smiling face as we arrive for visits during the holidays...these are the little things that will be missed so much during our return trips. My Meme was a woman like no other, strong willed with a sense of humor that knows no bounds. Her infectious laugh and bright smile have been one of the many highlights of my life. I will always think of her wonderful baked goods, especially at Christmas time, and how warm and cozy her home always made us feel. I will never forget the house on Francois avenue, the home of Eugene and Georgette Bellmore, my beloved Meme and Pepe, it will always be one of the great sources for my childhood memories. I will never forget how loving Meme was towards Katarina, how well they got along, as if Nina herself were one of Memes grandchildren. Of this I have no doubt, Katarina loved Meme as if she were her own Grandmother, and she will never forget all of the times they had together. So I send this in hopes that it will reach my family in their time of need. I am suffering from our loss, as you suffer. Make no mistake, though, I do not wish to mourn her death...I would like to celebrate her life, and I hope all of you will join me in doing so. Words cannot express how much it pains me that I can't be there with you, but I know my family carries the fire for me. If Meme were here, she would scorn us all for being mournful, and encourage us to laugh and be merry and enjoy the fond memories that we've all shared. She would smile and tell a joke, she would celebrate life, as she did at the time of her husband's passing. We will miss her dearly, and nothing will be able to fill the void that has been left in her absence, but nothing will stand the test of time like our fond memories of her. We love and miss you Meme, so very much. We wish nothing more than to have had more time with you this past year, but we know you will always be with us now, watching over us. To our family and friends, we will see you soon. From a loving Grandson and his wonderful future wife, Thomas Bellmore & Katarina Safradin
